From West 4th Physiotherapy associate Alison Heald
I recently attended a course called New Trends in the Prevention of Running Injuries.
The Running Clinic utilizes the most recent evidence-based information available in the prevention and treatment of running injuries. We discussed many different topics of interest, including biomechanical analyses, shoe analyses, diagnosis of injuries, the best of evidence based treatment, as well as training.
This article will discuss the Biomechanical Analysis of Running with respect to what is considered to be an Efficient Technique ( where there is a minimal cost in energy), versus an Inefficient Technique ( where there is a high cost of energy).
With an efficient running technique, the initial point of contact with the ground happens close to our center of gravity. If we can achieve this, typically the following events will occur:
- Our foot strike is towards the forefoot
- We will have a decrease in the time of contact with the ground
- There will be less vertical displacement
- A decrease in useless muscle contractions
- Stride frequency (cadence) of approximately 180 per minute
With an inefficient running technique, the initial point of contact with the ground is the heel, which is ahead of our center of gravity. This is associated with the following:
- An increase in the braking phase and ground reaction force
- An increase in the time of contact with the ground
- An increase of useless upper body work and spinal torsion
- An increase of vertical displacement
- A decrease in stride frequency
Through practical sessions and discussion we learned effective methods to teach our clients simple, practical applications to correct important biomechanical issues, with the overall goals aimed at improving running performance and avoidance of injury.
I look forward to helping runners of all levels achieve their goals!
Have a running issue? Call the clinic and book with Alison for a running review and a solution to get you back on the road.
With 5 associates recognized as specialists by The Running Clinic, West 4th Physiotherapy is recognized and recommended as a specialized running clinic care centre. Book an appointment with Alison or one of our other running specialists for solutions to your running problems.